I had a full English breakfast at Garfunkels, with freshly squeezed orange juice. Expensive, but it set me up for the day as I do not order food on airlines. We departed on time and had a following wind, so arrived a bit early. The plane was nearly 90% full (146 passengers), but those that I spoke to were mainly going on cruises.
At Luxor airport the local representatives were correctly sending their customers to the bank windows to get their visas, except for one who was rounding up about 4 people and providing them with visas. I expect he ripped them off (or charged extra for his service). Good for Thomson to have cleaned up their act here. The visas now cost $25, so I got LE 25 change for a £20 note.
As I have had problems at the ATM near the exit earlier this year I used another one airside to get some local currency. The exchange rate is close to LE11.50 to £1.
I did not stop at the duty-free on arrival. Tayib was waiting for me when I left the terminal building, and I was not hassled by porters or other drivers. All-in-all a greatly improved experience!
It being early, we headed straight for the Ramesseum Rest House (RRH) for afternoon refreshments. They had been closed during the afternoon in early summer but are now staying open, even though they have little food and a limited selection of liquid refreshment. The price of a Stella is now LE 20 (previously 15), as the duty on alcohol has been raised. There was a powercut from about 7p.m. but it seemed quite local. So I left in darkness.
At the hotel Sheherazade I unpacked and gave Christine's bacon and black pudding to be stored in the refrigerator overnight. I dined at Fayrouz, over the road. Their Stella is nor LE 16 (was 11 or 12) and Obelisk LE85 (was 75) but other prices had not increased significantly. They were quiet, only about 15 customers, but at least they never seem to be empty. Several of my acquaintances were there, and of course everyone was pleased to see me.
A night-cap back at the hotel, where I discussed recent changes and news with the owner, but I will write about these another day.
And so to my room. There was a two minute powercut as I prepared for bed. But I know my room (#105) very well, so had no problems. By the time I had located and taken my evening medications the power was back on. My bed was as comfortable as ever - a good, firm mattress on a solid concrete base (so no risk of snakes or other creatures under the bed!) - and I slept well.